MLB.com beat writer Brian McTaggart blogs about all things Astros.

Astros sign Gonzalez, Valdez

The Astros have signed right-handed pitchers Edgar Gonzalez and Jose Valdez to Minor League contracts with invites to Spring Training. They were both outrighted and removed from the 40-man roster on Nov. 1.

Gonzalez, 29, went 3-1 with a 5.04 ERA in six starts for the Astros last season after having his contract purchased from Triple-A Oklahoma City on Sept. 3. He has pitched in parts of eight Major League seasons with Arizona (2003-08), Oakland (2009), Colorado (2011) and Houston (2012).

Gonzalez is expected to compete for a spot in the back end of the Astros’ pitching rotation.

Here are Gonzalez’s contract details: Minor League contract for $15,000/month. Agreement for Major League contract for $90,000. $525,000 in Majors. Plus: $25,000 for 20 games; $25,000 for 22 games; $25,000 for 24 games; $25,000 for 26 games; $25,000 for 28 games; $50,000 for 30 games; $100,000 for 32 games. Major League invitation to Spring Training.

Valdez, 29, compiled a 2.25 ERA in 12 relief appearances after being a September callup for the Astros last season. He spent the majority of his season with Oklahoma City, where he posted a 4.95 ERA with 21 saves in 46 relief appearances.

Here are Valdez’s contract details: Minor League contract for $15,000/month. Agreement for Major League contract for $100,000. $500,000 in Majors. If not on Major League roster, Player may sign with Japan for $50,000 if prior to March 31; $100,000 if after March 31 OR will be added to roster within 48 hours. Major League invitation to Spring Training.

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